"Strength in Weakness"

 

“Strength in Weakness”

 

When Karen and I visited Sequoia National Park and viewed the magnificent redwoods in 1997 we learned that they thrive through adversity (see the early posting “Adversity Needed” in the “Reading the Redwoods” series). While few if any of us look forward to struggles or discipline in our lives we need both to be strengthened in our faith. In Hebrews 12:11 we read, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” My own life experiences have shown me many lessons I’ve been taught in the “School of Hard Knocks” that I’d never have learned otherwise. The anonymous writer of Psalm 119 put it this way: “Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word…It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.” (Verses 67, 71, emphasis added). And let’s not forget Paul’s words: “…We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him….” (Romans 8:28, emphasis added).

Speaking (or in this case writing) of Paul, he certainly knew what suffering for his faith was all about. It likely left him with the unknown condition he referred to as “…a thorn in my flesh….” from which he asked deliverance three times (2 Corinthians 12:7-8). His prayer was answered but not with healing—rather with Jesus’ assurance that “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9, emphasis added). Paul gladly accepted His will and expressed his confidence that “…when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:10). And that same grace and strength is available to us when times are rough.

We’re living in difficult times as Jesus (“In this world you will have trouble.”—John 16:33) and Paul (“…Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted….”—2 Timothy 3:12) foretold. But God has promised “…grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16). Around 1787 Robert Keen expressed this truth in the great hymn “How Firm a Foundation”:

   “When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,

   My grace, all sufficient, shall be thy supply.”

I conclude with another line from Keen’s pen: “What more can He say than to you He hath said….?” Amen!

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan